What does 'anti-aging' mean in a clinical context?
Reputable longevity clinicians avoid the phrase 'anti-aging' because it overpromises what any intervention can reliably deliver. What these programs more accurately aim to do is:
- Preserve or restore function that declines with age (muscle mass, bone density, hormonal balance, metabolic health, cardiovascular fitness)
- Reduce measurable risk factors for age-related disease (cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers)
- Extend the period of healthy function rather than simply extending lifespan
With that framing, several peptides and hormone therapies have meaningful roles in physician-supervised programs.
Peptides with the strongest evidence base
Semaglutide and tirzepatide (GLP-1/GIP agonists)
Originally developed for diabetes, these FDA-approved medications have demonstrated significant cardiovascular risk reduction in clinical trials, independent of their weight management effects. The SELECT trial (semaglutide) showed a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events in adults with overweight or obesity. This is some of the strongest evidence for any intervention currently used in longevity medicine.
Tesamorelin
FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy, tesamorelin is a GHRH analogue with the most robust human clinical trial data among GH-related peptides. Used off-label in longevity programs for body composition support (particularly visceral fat reduction). Better evidence base than most compounded GH peptides.
Sermorelin and ipamorelin
GHRH pathway peptides used to support natural GH release. Less direct evidence than tesamorelin, but widely used in longevity programs for body composition, sleep quality, and recovery. Compounded by 503A pharmacies. Full guide: Sermorelin.
Peptides with developing evidence
BPC-157
Strong animal model data for tissue repair and recovery. Limited human clinical trial data. Legally prescribable as a compounded medication. Used in longevity programs primarily for musculoskeletal recovery and gut health. Full guide: BPC-157 for injury recovery.
GHK-Cu (Copper peptide)
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide with animal and in-vitro research suggesting effects on collagen production, wound healing, and antioxidant activity. Used topically in skin care and in some longevity programs. Limited controlled human trial data for systemic use.
Epithalon
A short synthetic peptide (four amino acids) based on a hormone produced by the pineal gland. Animal research and some small Russian clinical studies suggest telomere-related effects. Human evidence is limited and methodology of existing studies is inconsistent. Considered more experimental than most other entries on this list.
NAD+ and precursors (NMN, NR)
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that declines with age and is central to cellular energy production and DNA repair. IV NAD+, intramuscular injections, and oral supplements are widely offered at longevity clinics. The mechanistic rationale is sound; clinical evidence for specific outcomes in humans is still accumulating. Full context: Longevity medicine clinics guide.
Peptides used in specific longevity contexts
| Peptide | Primary use | Evidence level |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide / tirzepatide | Metabolic health, CV risk | Strong (FDA-approved, RCT data) |
| Tesamorelin | Body composition | Moderate (FDA-approved, RCT data for primary indication) |
| Sermorelin | GH support, body composition | Moderate (extensive use, limited RCT data for longevity use) |
| Ipamorelin / CJC-1295 | GH support | Limited (mostly clinical use experience) |
| BPC-157 | Recovery, gut health | Developing (animal models, limited human data) |
| GHK-Cu | Skin, anti-aging | Developing (in vitro, topical human data) |
| Epithalon | Longevity | Experimental |
What to ask a longevity clinic about their peptide programs
- What evidence do you rely on when recommending this specific peptide for my situation?
- What baseline testing do you run, and how do results inform the protocol?
- How will we measure whether the intervention is working?
- Is this peptide FDA-approved for this use, or is it prescribed off-label or as a compounded medication?
- Which pharmacy produces any compounded medications, and can I verify their credentials?
Find longevity and anti-aging clinics near you across the US. Relevant state directories: California - Texas - Florida - New York - Arizona - Colorado.
Related guides: Sermorelin vs HGH - Longevity medicine clinics - How to find a peptide clinic.